Researchers Identify First New Steroid-Like Hormone in 30 Years

A team led by Dr. Barry Forman of the City of Hope Diabetes Center in Duarte has identified what they call the first steroid-like hormone to be discovered in 30 years. They report in today’s Nature that the hormone, called androstanol, appears to have a mechanism of action different from that of most other steroids.

Most steroid hormones stimulate the transcription of genes, the process in which genetic information contained in DNA is converted into proteins. Androstanol, however, blocks such transcription. As a result, Forman said, it may have use in treating diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis and diabetes.

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Compiled by Times medical writer Thomas H. Maugh II